Luciano Spalletti is optimistic that Juventus' 3-2 win against Bodo/Glimt in the Champions League will help lift the team's spirits and rejuvenate their season. Juventus had been struggling, with three draws and a loss in their first four matches. The victory in Norway, under challenging conditions, could mark a turning point for them.
Juventus faced difficulties on Bodo's artificial pitch, where Ole Didrik Blomberg gave the hosts a lead at halftime. However, goals from Lois Openda and Weston McKennie turned the game around before Sondre Fet equalised from the penalty spot. Jonathan David secured the win with a stoppage-time goal.
Spalletti expressed concerns about his team's mentality and training tempo. "The team does feel this cloud over them,
with everything that is said," he told Sky Sports Italia. He emphasised the need for players to develop belief and courage, as well as improve their training intensity.
The coach noted that some players are not fully fit or in form. He stressed the importance of real match situations for developing speed of thought and movement, rather than relying solely on training sessions.
In Tuesday's match, Juventus managed 16 shots on target, matching Bayern Munich's record against Crvena Zvedza in 2019 for an away side in a Champions League game. They also led the expected goals (xG) metric by 3.44 to 1.75, which Spalletti felt justified their victory.
"The team played an open, attacking game," Spalletti added. He acknowledged Bodo/Glimt's impressive passing and speed but believed his team deserved the win despite some missed opportunities in the first half.
Upcoming Challenges
Juventus will face Cagliari in Serie A on Saturday before taking on Udinese in a Coppa Italia match next Tuesday. They are set to visit Napoli and former coach Antonio Conte on December 7, adding to their challenging schedule.
The victory against Bodo/Glimt has lifted Juventus to 21st place in Serie A standings. Spalletti hopes this success can be a catalyst for better performances moving forward.
The coach dedicated this important win to both the players and fans who supported them during the match. "This is an important victory, one the lads deserved," he stated.
